PRESS RELEASE: Spadola Proposes Nuisance Property Czar Ahead of FY28 Budget
October 14, 2026
Spadola Proposes Nuisance Property Czar Ahead of FY28 Budget
Wilmington, DE – As Wilmington begins discussions about the FY28 Budget, City Councilmember At-Large James Spadola is proposing that Mayor John Carney consider establishing a cabinet-level nuisance and vacant property czar with the authority to coordinate City departments and see problem properties through to resolution.
“Nuisance properties often involve several City departments, each responsible for a different piece of the problem. We have good people doing this work, but there’s not always someone responsible for the entire process,” said Councilmember Spadola. “Issuing a ticket or closing a complaint doesn’t necessarily mean the underlying problem has been fixed. We need someone who owns these issues from beginning to end.”
The proposed czar would focus exclusively on nuisance and vacant properties, both residential and commercial, with the authority to coordinate Licenses and Inspections, Land Use and Planning, Public Works, Law, Police, and other departments as needed. The position would be public-facing, regularly visiting neighborhoods, meeting with residents and property owners, setting timelines for action, and following up until problems are resolved. The goal would be to address recurring issues proactively, rather than waiting for residents to report the same problems repeatedly.
“The goal isn’t to replace the work of existing departments, but to make sure someone is responsible for coordinating that work, tracking progress, and keeping residents informed until the underlying problems are addressed,” said Councilmember Spadola.
“I envision someone whose full-time job is to coordinate the City’s response to problem properties, stay on top of every department involved, and follow up until the property is brought into compliance and the underlying issues are actually resolved.”
“This doesn’t have to mean adding another position to the City payroll. Restructuring existing positions and responsibilities may accomplish the same goal. I appreciate the work Mayor Carney and his administration are doing, and I’d like to see this proposal considered as part of the FY28 budget.”
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MEDIA CONTACT:Yesenia TaverasDirector of Communications, Wilmington City CouncilOffice: (302)576-2585
Mobile: (302)757-5748Email: ytaveras@wilmingtonde.govCity Council Website: www.wilmingtoncitycouncil.com